PROCLAMATION NO. 472

: Proclamation No. 472 declares the third week of October of every year as the National Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) Awareness Week in the Philippines.
: Proclamation No. 472 was signed on September 18, 2003.
: Proclamation No. 472 was signed by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and by Executive Secretary Alberto G. Romulo.
: The purpose is to increase awareness and understanding about Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD), reduce social stigma, and promote access to effective treatment and support for individuals with AD/HD.
: AD/HD affects an estimated four (4) million Filipinos nationwide, which is roughly three percent (3%) of the population according to the proclamation.
: Unmitigated AD/HD can lead to increased incidence of out-of-school youths, child abuse and neglect, and higher rates of juvenile offenders and adult prisoners with AD/HD.
: Co-morbid conditions mentioned include conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and antisocial disorder.
: Persons with AD/HD are described as having above-average intelligence, high creativity, abundant energy, and the ability to multitask, which can make them potential path-breakers.
: The National AD/HD Week is held under the auspices of the AD/HD Society of the Philippines, Inc.
: With proper management and support, individuals with AD/HD can lead productive and faithful lives and contribute to the nation's moral, financial, and spiritual recovery.